Impact Warren continues to take shape along the Allegheny River.

Ground was officially broken for The Landing at Breeze Point, a 24-unit riverfront townhouse complex, during a ceremony Monday morning.

"This project is a ready-made success," said Robert Bobincheck of the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, addressing local government officials, "and it's only ready-made because you put so much into it."

The PHFA will provide assistance to cover down payments and closing costs for those whose household income is less than 115 percent of the state's median income.

"The first time I was here it looked a lot different," joked Bobincheck, pointing to several Impact Warren projects around him. "I congratulate all of you for your vision and foresight."

Bobincheck said private housing projects like The Landing at Breeze Point are a critical first step in economic development by attracting industry and new employers to the area.

The housing units "were never designed to be high-end" but rather will be made available to "a broad mix of individuals," said Warren Mayor Mark Phillips.

Bob Yoder of Susquehanna Development said the units will be available to "anybody that can afford to make mortgage payments."

Howard Brush, representing Gov. Ed Rendell's office, commended the "progressive thinkers who spearheaded this project," stating that Impact Warren has been a model for several counties throughout the commonwealth.

"You folks did it right," he said.

The original design by architect Thomas Harley called for three buildings to be located along the north side of the Allegheny River.

That design was revised, however, after several Warren residents expressed concerns over how the townhouses would limit public access to the riverfront. The project was redesigned into two buildings that were moved back approximately 60 feet from the river.

The new design now allows for a one-way public street to loop around the townhouses and creates additional parking.

The 24-unit complex will include townhouses on the second and third floors and garden apartments on the lower level. All units will feature balconies overlooking the Allegheny River.

Yoder said he expects construction to begin in 30 days and the project to last approximately 10 to 12 months.

Construction on the site had been delayed because the area was being used by the contractor for the Hickory Street Bridge project.

Yoder also told officials that two ribbon-cutting ceremonies will be held in September for Allegheny Point senior housing apartments and the innovative geothermal heating and cooling system that will be used for the Impact Warren facilities.

The developer will also start marketing the units to the public. Applications to determine financing eligibility are available at the Warren Municipal Building.